Karuizawa

Things to Do in Karuizawa

Explore Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street

Kyu-Karuizawa Ginza Street is a historic shopping street is lined with boutique stores, cafés, and local bakeries. You can shop for souvenirs, try fresh fruit jams, or visit the classic Mampei Hotel.

Visit Harunire Terrace

Located near Naka-Karuizawa Station, Harunire Terrace combines nature and modern charm. Stroll along wooden walkways surrounded by trees, browse artisan shops, and enjoy dining at elegant restaurants serving both Japanese and Western cuisine.

Shop at Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza

Right beside JR Karuizawa Station (South Exit), Karuizawa Prince Shopping Plaza offers over 200 brand stores, restaurants, and cafés surrounded by a scenic pond and mountain views. It's one of Japan's best-known outlet destinations, perfect for combining shopping with a relaxed walk.

Enjoy Nature at Kumoba Pond and Shiraito Waterfall

Kumoba Pond (also called Swan Lake) is famous for its colorful reflections in autumn, while Shiraito Waterfall features gentle white streams flowing over black volcanic rocks. Both are easy to reach by bus or taxi from Karuizawa Station.

Relax in Hot Springs and Spas

Karuizawa is home to relaxing onsen like Tombo no Yu and No Yu. These natural hot springs are surrounded by forests and mountains---perfect for unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing.

Popular Attractions Near Karuizawa

Shiraito Waterfall

This wide, curtain-like waterfall is fed by an underground spring and surrounded by forest. The best time to visit is in summer for lush greenery or winter when the falls partially freeze. You can get there in 25 minutes by local bus.

Onioshidashi Park

On the slopes of Mount Asama, Onioshidashi Park is filled with massive volcanic rock formations created by old eruptions. You can hike through the area, visit a small shrine, and enjoy stunning mountain views. It's only a 35-minute car ride from Karuizawa.

Kusatsu Onsen

One of Japan's most famous hot spring resorts, Kusatsu Onsen is about an hour from Karuizawa and known for its rejuvenating mineral waters and scenic yubatake (hot water field). It's the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Shiga Kogen

Located roughly 1.5 hours away, Shiga Kogen is a paradise for skiers and snowboarders in winter and a lush hiking destination in summer. The area is also part of the Joshin'etsu Kogen National Park, offering breathtaking mountain landscapes year-round.

Mount Haruna

Around a 90-minute drive from Karuizawa, Mount Haruna is one of Gunma's iconic mountains, featuring serene Lake Haruna at its base. Visitors can take a ropeway to the summit for panoramic views or enjoy boating and local eats by the lakeside.